As the world of mixed martial arts continues to captivate fans and fighters alike, September 2024 delivered some unforgettable moments in the octagon. Big upsets, thrilling finishes, and technical mastery characterized the month, making it difficult to choose the best submissions. Let’s delve into the standout performances as we highlight five exceptional candidates for the Submission of the Month award, which showcases the prowess and creativity of these athletes.
In an explosive encounter, Ketlen Souza marked her territory in the strawweight division with an incredible upset victory over Yazmin Jauregui. Entering the match as a significant underdog, Souza proved naysayers wrong by employing a spectacular left hook that sent Jauregui crashing to the canvas. Maintaining her focus, Souza quickly capitalized on the moment, transitioning skillfully into a rear-naked choke, effectively rendering Jauregui unconscious within the first three minutes of the bout. This sequence not only epitomizes Souza’s striking accuracy but also her grappling proficiency, elevating her to the forefront of the competition.
Another remarkable upset came courtesy of Danylo Voievodkin, who stunned the audience by toppling Bailey Schoenfelder in the heavyweight category. Voievodkin, heavily underestimated before the fight, unleashed a powerful right-left combination that put Schoenfelder on the mat. Demonstrating agile grappling skills, he quickly transitioned to a rear-naked choke, forcing his opponent to tap out. This victory signifies Voievodkin’s evolution in the sport, showcasing a blend of striking power and submission tactics that is essential in heavyweight matchups.
Chris Duncan’s Dominance
Chris Duncan displayed sheer determination against Bolaji Oki, managing to render his opponent unconscious within the first round through a guillotine choke. The fight took an intense turn when Oki attempted a takedown, only to find himself caught in Duncan’s vice-like grip. Though Duncan briefly diverted his focus to deliver additional strikes, he soon realized the gravity of the situation: Oki was out cold. This incident is not just a display of technique but also of awareness in the heat of battle, highlighting Duncan’s position as a formidable competitor in the lightweight division.
In front of a roaring home crowd in Glasgow, Stevie Ray put on a show with a groundbreaking submission against Lewis Long. The technique, dubbed the “Scottish Twister,” added a unique twist to the familiar twister position, demonstrating Ray’s creativity and adaptability. The innovative strategy he employed not only secured him the victory but also excited the fans, making a strong case for his trajectory in the 150-pound catchweight division.
Cody Durden was perhaps the most talked-about fighter of the month following his impressive tap-out against Matt Schnell, achieved on short notice after taking the fight four days before. Durden’s ability to switch the momentum during a takedown attempt by Schnell was a masterclass in grappling transition. His execution of the anaconda choke showcased not only his grappling acumen but also his readiness to seize fleeting opportunities. Durden’s performance underscored his resilience and adaptability, securing his spot among this month’s submission elite.
The excitement of September 2024 has set the stage for future bouts, as these fighters continually push the boundaries of technical prowess and skill in the art of MMA. Fans are encouraged to reflect on these stunning submissions and participate in the voting to determine the Submission of the Month winner. Who do you think deserves the title this time around?